Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ponsford, MN
Considering a move to Ponsford, MN? This small, rural community of about 110 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $157,000 and average rents of $775. Enjoy a peaceful setting with low crime rates (violent crime at 120 per 100k), quick commutes of about 28 minutes, and beautiful northern Minnesota seasons. With high owner-occupancy, nearby schools, and access to outdoor recreation, Ponsford is ideal for those seeking quiet, affordability, and access to nature.
Demographics - Ponsford, MN
Demographics - Ponsford, MN
Ponsford is a small rural community with a population of just 110 people, featuring a median age of 51.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The area is predominantly White (69.1%) with a significant Native American presence, and about 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The low population density offers a quiet, close-knit atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
110
Density:
8 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
69.1%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ponsford, MN?
Cost of living in Ponsford is well below the national average, with a cost of living index of 87.5 and median home values around $157,000. Residents benefit from affordable housing and reasonable utility costs, making the area attractive for budget-conscious families or retirees. State tax rates range from 5.35% to 9.85%, and typical household expenses such as groceries and transportation are also fairly modest.
Median House Value:
$157,000
Gross Rent:
$775
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
95.4
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
104.7
Transportation:
91.3
Health Care:
105.2
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Ponsford, MN a safe place to live?
Ponsford experiences very low crime rates, with violent crimes at just 120 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,280 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 833, providing a safe environment for families and individuals. The community’s small size and rural setting contribute to its overall sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,280
Crime Index:
1,400
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 78
Weather
What is the weather like in Ponsford, MN year-round?
Ponsford enjoys all four seasons, with cold winters (lows around 0°F) and pleasant summers reaching up to 79°F. The area sees about 24.5 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny conditions about 54% of the year. Residents can expect crisp autumns and mild springs, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate a classic northern climate.
Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
21°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
24.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Local households in Ponsford typically earn a median income of $43,000, with a notable proportion of residents (26.5%) living below the poverty line. Education attainment is solid, with 85% holding at least a high school diploma, and the unemployment rate is relatively low at 4.9%. Most people commute by car, averaging about a 28-minute drive to work, reflecting the rural character of the community.
Median Income:
$21,500
Household Income:
$43,000
Family Income:
$49,500
Per Capita Income:
$19,200
Income Male:
$28,500
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
26.5%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$775
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.0%
Bachelors or More:
11.3%
Education
How are the schools in Ponsford, MN?
Public education for Ponsford students is provided by Osage Public School within the Park Rapids Area Schools district, offering a student-teacher ratio of 13.8 for individualized learning. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at Minnesota State Community and Technical College, located 28 miles away in Detroit Lakes. The area supports families with reliable educational options from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Osage Public School (part of Park Rapids Area Schools ISD 309)
Street:
510 5th St W, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Phone:
218-237-6500
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Colleges
Name:
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
City:
Detroit Lakes
State:
MN
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Residents of Ponsford have access to nearby healthcare facilities such as Essentia Health St. Mary’s in Detroit Lakes, which provides general and emergency services. There are about 1.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, and nearly 90% of the population has health insurance coverage. The area’s healthcare index indicates reliable, accessible medical care for a small town.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health St. Mary's - Detroit Lakes
Address:
1027 Washington Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Phone:
(218) 847-5611
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ponsford, MN?
The Ponsford housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $157,000 and about 78% of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available at an average of $775 for a two-bedroom, and the market shows steady appreciation with a low foreclosure rate. New construction is limited, preserving the community’s rural charm and stability.
Median Home Price:
$157,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$775
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Ponsford residents handle driver and vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, located in St. Paul. The DMV offers comprehensive online resources and can be reached by phone for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs. This ensures convenient access to essential transportation services for locals.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, Ste 190, St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone:
651-297-2126
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.